David Smith has committed no offence, say police.

A Sunday Times investigation claimed David Smith, of Seaham, County Durham, had put down 10,000 dogs with a bolt gun and buried them in his allotment.

Police said Mr Smith owned the bolt gun legally and had committed no offence.

The National Greyhound Racing Club (NGRC) ordered the suspensions after launching an investigation.

'Massive distress'

An NGRC spokesman said: "The team has now identified and interviewed NGRC licensed persons regarding the euthanasia of two greyhounds.

"The senior steward has ordered that their licences be suspended pending a formal stewards inquiry. As this is an ongoing investigation, it would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this stage."

Mr Smith has refused to speak about his actions, except to say that the publicity was causing him "massive distress".

Following death threats, he has now installed security cameras at his home.

It is not illegal to kill animals as long as it is carried out humanely and they do not feel pain.